Chimpanzee at Indianapolis Zoo dies unexpectedly

According to a Facebook post from the zoo, the organization’s veterinary team believes 38-year-old Winston died of heart disease-related complications.

“Winston had many strong relationships in his chimpanzee community and a rich social life,” Indianapolis Zoo administrators wrote in their Facebook post. “It was a privilege to have him here at our Zoo. He will be deeply missed by the primate team.”

The Indianapolis Zoo opened its new chimpanzee exhibit in May 2024. Zoobilation 2024’s theme was related to the zoo’s introduction of its chimpanzee complex.

More information on the zoo’s international chimpanzee complex is available here.